To the Editor:

How do you want Maine to be known to the rest of the county?

There’s a feeling that Maine is special, a state populated by people who are fair, down to earth and driven by common sense and courtesy. Maine also has incredible natural beauty, which we share with wildlife and visitors. We have a long heritage of outdoor recreation, from kayaking and skiing to hiking and hunting. And we are, for the most part, good stewards of all that nature provides.

How then can we justify the cruelty practiced by a small number of Mainers and hunters from away when it comes to hunting bears: the use of bait, traps and dogs.

Imagine, for a minute, a cover story by Down East magazine showing a black bear caught in a foot snare, desperate to escape. Or maybe a piece in The New York Times Sunday magazine detailing how packs of hounds track and tree bears — often resulting in severe mauling of both species. Perhaps the public would be interested in a photo spread in The Times Record showing big brave hunters bagging their trophy while the bear paws through the food left at a bait site.

Not the Maine we want the rest of the country to see? I hope not. Not the Maine we want to live in? Again, I hope not.

In 2014, Mainers will have an opportunity to vote for The Maine Fair Bear Hunting Act. It would ban bear baiting, hounding and trapping. It is NOT an attempt to end bear hunting.

Between now and November 2014, please take the time to learn more. Talk to hunters and animal welfare proponents. Speak with your neighbors, friends, families and colleagues. Ask questions and do some research.

In the end, it will be up to you and me. The citizens of Maine are the only people who can decide who we are and what we stand for.

Constance McCabe
Harpswell